2006 Tobin James, James Gang Reserve, Paso Robles, Malbec ($38.00 but came in the Fall 2008 shipment). Alcohol level: 14.2%. This is the only Malbec we have ever received from TJ before or since. They say it comes from a small Paso vineyard, but it apparently hasn’t produced enough for them for over four years. They do add some to their Meritage called “5”. We will be popping the first of these next year.

Getting back to the Malbec, we popped it tonight despite the fact that it was tagged for last year. There was only a tad of bricking. It gave round, complex, red & black fruit on the nose and upfront. There was more luscious fruit, lovely structure, and very smooth tannin in the middle; along with a long and worthy finish.

We matched it with rib eye steak rubbed with Morton rub, and grilled over charcoal and mesquite chips; along with roasted beet salad, and a wonderful baguette. Just as a perfect Saturday night as you would want.